Yitzhak Navon Quotes

A collection of quotes by Yitzhak Navon.

Yitzhak Navon was an Israeli politician, author, and diplomat who served as the fifth President of Israel from 1978 to 1983. Born on April 9, 1921, in Jerusalem, Navon came from a prominent Sephardic Jewish family. He studied Arabic language and literature at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and then served in the British Army's Jewish Brigade during World War II.

Navon began his political career in the Mapai party and became a member of the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in 1965. He held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Culture and Education, and played an active role in promoting the development of Israeli Arabic culture. Navon was known for his efforts to bridge the gap between Jewish and Arab communities in Israel through cultural engagement and mutual respect.

In 1978, Navon was elected by the Knesset as Israel's president, becoming the first Sephardic Jew to hold the prestigious position. As president, he focused on enhancing Israel's cultural identity and strengthening ties with Jewish communities around the world.

After completing his term in 1983, Navon retired from active politics but continued as a widely respected public figure and author. He published several books, including memoirs and novels. Yitzhak Navon passed away on November 7, 2015, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of promoting national unity and fostering cultural understanding in Israel.